Say Hello to My Little Lens

Please remind me, I did say that the lens I started off using weighs about five pounds, right? Right. As someone with fairly weak and narrow wrists, having to carry that thing around all day, plus the camera, was cumbersome and almost enough to deter me from taking photos. Almost. Even though I was told by the "pros" out there that it's an overall great lens (whatever that means), they still agreed that it's a bit heavy for everyday use.

So... (as the title of this post reads) Say Hello to My Little Lens:

A Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G, aka my very first camera/photography-related purchase. Total $236.20 from B&H.

To be honest, I had second thoughts about making such a big purchase right off the bat, especially since I'm just starting out. But if I'm really trying to get into this hobby, and I mean really get into it, I'm in for the long haul. This is probably just the beginning. Who knew camera equipment would be so expensive?? I mean, I knew... but I didn't know. Ugh, better start saving!

Anyway, back to the lens.

This was a recommendation from Rafael, the sales associate at K&M Camera in NYC. He said that it's an all-around fun little lens that will do what I need at this stage of my photography journey. So, I went to B&H on Sunday to try it out.

It was between the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm 1.8G and the Normal AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D Autofocus Lens. From what I understand, the AF-S 1.8G is updated, and the "S" means it's essentially silent when focusing.

Before I fudge on the technicals, here's B&H's description:

Nikon's AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G Lens is an attractive alternative to the classic 50mm f/1.4 "normal" lens for everyday shooting with an FX or 35mm camera. The 50mm f/1.8 is nearly as "fast" as the f/1.4 (just 2/3 stops difference), and provides reduced lens flare and ghosting (plus superior color consistency) through the use of Nikon's Super Integrated Coating. Aspherical lens elements virtually eliminate coma and other types of aberration.

Nikon's Silent Wave Motor gives you smooth, silent and precise autofocus operation, and the M/A mode lets you quickly and easily override the autofocus system for fine manual focusing with almost no time lag. This lens is also compatible with DX cameras. When used with a DX camera, the angle of view would be equivalent to 75mm.

BUT, Tom at B&H told me regardless of all the technical specifications, the most important aspect I should keep in mind is the "feel." My boyfriend Nick reiterated that it's all about the attitude. Which lens makes me feel better, and perhaps more confident? And so, I went with the 1.8G, only to find out later that it's more expensive. Oh, well, story of my life.

And, Rafael was right. This is a really fun lens. SO much lighter than the 35-70mm 2.8 I started out with, and much more enjoyable for me as a beginner - less intimidating. The new lens makes it easier to pick up the camera, point, focus, and shoot.

Is it too soon to say it feels like puppy love?

"If a photographer cares about the people before the lens and is compassionate, much is given. It is the photographer, not the camera, that is the instrument." - award-winning photojournalist, Eve Arnold.

Tips, tricks, and comments welcome!